The Ames family have long been a force in Massachusetts politics, public service, and as possibly the most famous yard and garden tools manufacturer in the United States. Since the year 1744, if one wanted a state-of-the-art shovel, the best on the market, one bought it from the Oliver Ames & Sons Shovel Works. Not only part of American history and lore, Ames produced – and still does – the largest variety of shovels ever conceived. Not satisfied with producing the finest flat and round-nosed shovels that human hands could construct (many of which from 200 years ago still exist), the Ames company invented over one hundred other specialty shovels for almost any conceivable digging task that could occur on planet Earth.

While the Ames family sold its controlling interest some time ago, the company, over the past thirty years, has acquired other related companies to expand its product line and market penetration. This expansion culminated in the acquisition of the equally famous True Temper, which was started in 1809 in Vermont to produce agricultural products and tools, and which now owns wheelbarrow companies and other tool manufacturers. Oliver Ames and his sons were committed to quality and versatility in tool manufacture and their products continue to be of the highest quality. If you’re ever in Boston, take a quick (around 30 to 40 minutes) trip southeast and visit North Easton. The Ames name appears everywhere from the High School to the Library to many lesser publicized places. If you want top quality hand garden tools today, consider Ames or one of their companies’ products. You will not be disappointed.

Bow saws are wonderful, versatile tools and can be purchased at low cost ($10 to $25). Stanley garden tools, always a good choice, have a reasonably priced selection. Bow saws look a bit like a classic hacksaw. With a curved or rectangular arched frame, the thin blade is attached between the ends of the arch, leaving four to eight inches or so between blade and frame.

With this versatile, low cost, quality garden tool, you can perform many tasks. You can cut smaller branches from trees, shrubs, or other growing things with branches. You can use it to prune trees, shrubs, and lawn/garden plants. Branches of large trees that tend to clutter up your yard after a windy day or serious thunderstorm can quickly be reduced in size with a bow saw. If you’re fascinated by antique garden tools, you can probably find an old wooden handled bow saw for your collection. If not an expensive collector’s item, it can still be used to improve the look of your yard or garden.